The spiny lobster - Barbuda's ocean treasure

To truly experience a place, you need to eat the local speciality. When visiting Barbuda, that means indulging in a dish of spiny lobster. The spiny lobster, or Panulirus argus, is celebrated for its sweet, delicious meat. But it is precisely that deliciousness which could lead to their decline. Overfishing can be a real danger, especially as the island finds other unlicenced Caribbean nationals coming to the island for the prized catch.

Recognising the need for conservation, a closed fishing season was introduced ten years ago in the twin islands, running from 1st May and 30th June, allowing the lobster population a window to regenerate. Ensuring the species thrives is vital, not only for the lobsters themselves but for Barbuda’s economy, where lobster fishing represents the largest part of the economy, after the public sector, estimated at 40 percent.

This means that if you want to taste this local delicacy, plan your visit outside the closed season. The most famous spot to sample spiny lobster is Uncle Roddy’s, an island institution renowned for its rustic charm and mouthwatering dishes.

Yet, Uncle Roddy’s is not the only place to experience this culinary delight. Barbuda offers several places where spiny lobster is the highlight, each adding its own twist to the dish. For a more adventurous approach, consider buying directly from the local fishermen.

In Barbuda, the spiny lobster is more than just a meal; it’s a key part of the island’s culture and economy. So, when you visit, make sure to indulge in this local speciality and support the sustainable practices that help keep this tradition alive.